From a press release issued by the CMRA:

Christopher and Stephen Corder and Marianna Essing have agreed to move their existing sponsorship to the “Mr. Corder Racing Fast Lap”. They will pay $150 to the rider setting the fastest transponder-recorded lap, (regardless of
bike size or class) during Sunday’s sprint races (not practice) at all ten CMRA events. The winning rider will be announced following the event, with a post on the CMRA message board and the rider’s name and lap time posted underneath the Mr. Corder Racing logo on the home page, where it will stay until the following race.

Thanks to Mr. Corder racing for their continued support!

From a press release issued by California Superbike School:

“A Twist of the Wrist” in Estonian?

Marching along with the translations of Keith Code’s “A Twist of the Wrist” books into other languages is the completed Estonian version.

A proof copy of the translation has already been submitted and adopted as recommended reading by the Estonian DMV and plans to open a California Superbike School are in progress. Estonians will be off to a good start, using the “A Twist of the Wrist” books, as we did here in America, for their rider improvement bibles.

Estonia, ever heard of this tiny country slightly smaller than Vermont and New Hampshire combined? Its on the Baltic Sea south of Finland and north of Latvia right next to Russia. It’s 1.3 million population has 98 FIM licensed racers and about 3,000 people who own modern street bikes.

If America had this same enthusiasm per capita we would have over 20,000 internationally licensed racers! Top all that off with three race tracks and you have a picture of Estonian enthusiasm.

Races typically draw around 150 competitors, again, very healthy numbers for the size of the country. But check out the attendance figures: races average 20,000 people per event. Can you imagine 20,000 people showing up for a WERA, CCS, AFM or any other non national event?


From another press release issued by California Superbike School:

Color Media to Publish Keith Code’s “A Twist of the Wrist” books in France

French publisher Color Media and Keith Code have completed the translation and inked a publishing and distribution contract for Code’s ground breaking and ever popular “A Twist of the Wrist” book. Color Media publishes “Sport Bikes” magazine in France among other titles.

Sport Bikes editor in chief, Diane de Salve, met with Code and 2002 125cc World Champion Arnaud Vincent at a track day in southern France this October held at Ales, a small circuit north of Marseilles, France.

Vincent and Code spent the entire day going over the “A Twist of the Wrist” material with Vincent recording his notes which will appear in the margins of the French translation along with Eddie Lawson and Wayne Rainey’s comments and observations on the book material.

“Arnaud was really surprised by the whole experience. First off, he had never ridden a street bike before in his life and second, no one had ever asked him specific questions about his skills. After I’d already asked him two dozen questions on his riding he asked me if there were any more and I said ‘lots more’, he grinned and wanted to continue.”

Depending on the success of the first book, Color Media has interest in the other two of Code’s books, “A Twist of the Wrist, Volume II” and “The Soft Science of Roadracing Motorcycles”. The first book is set for Spring release and will feature new photography and upgraded graphics, the text will remain the same as the original but in French of course.

Another notch up in our continuing process of educating riders around the world.

Twist Of The Wrist

From a press release issued by Troy Corser’s publicist:

GOOD TEST FOR TROY!

After a really relaxing but fun time with my family and friends over Christmas and New Year, it was good to get back in the saddle again. And what a good test it was for us! After three days and nearly 190 laps, I left Phillip Island with the feeling that I could’ve raced the Alstare Suzuki GSXR1000 the very next day! It was good because the bike was as good at the start of the test as it had been at the end of the previous test, so we had a good base to start working. Over the three days, I never felt that I was having to push hard, but my laps times were good and very consistent. I did a race simulation on the final day and we were all very pleased with the time we achieved.

During the tests, we tried many different changes and loads of tyres and tried to get a good base set-up. Phillip Island is a good track for testing, because it has a great variety of corners and if you can find a good set-up for your bike there, it’s going to work pretty well almost any other circuit.

As usual, I had a bit of a problem with the Phillip Island wildlife! Because there was only me and my team mate Yukio on the track, the local birdlife didn’t have heaps of bikes charging round to scare them off the track, so they were a constant threat. The stupid things would just stand there in the middle of the track usually on the racing line for some reason ­and only get out of the way (or not!) at the last moment. In three days, I hit three of them (all plovers I think) and ended up with one smashed screen and a cracked front mudguard. Twice I had to wipe blood of my leathers after a collision, but at least I didn’t crash like Yukio. Mind you he didn’t hit a bird, he hit a hare! And really, he didn’t crash when he hit it, he just tipped off in the gravel trap after he went off the track.

The team is gelling really well and the new members have all slotted in almost perfectly. Of course, the Alstare Suzuki is still very new and there’s heaps of work to be done, but at this stage things are looking good. Yukio did pretty good at the test and because he is such an aggressive rider, he’s gonna keep my on my toes for sure. It’s good having a strong team mate, and once he understands the limits of the Pirellis he’s going to be a real threat. At the moment, I think we have a great package and certainly I’ll be going for the title right from the start. With all the strong riders and new teams coming into the series, it’s going to be a tremendous year for World Superbike fans.

It’s great riding a fast bike again and after years of looking at the back of other riders, I’m looking forward to them seeing my back!

See ya.

Troy

From a press release issued by Pine Run Motorsports Park:

New race track planned for Pine County

Investment group introduces new club membership concept to the Upper Midwest

FOREST LAKE, Minn. ­ A motorsports facility with multiple race tracks is in the development stage in Pine County.

The project, named Pine Run Motorsports Park, will offer a variety of racing, featuring a 3.9-mile road course, a quarter-mile championship dragstrip, a go-cart track, a clubhouse with lounge, locker room and observation deck, and a “vehicle dynamics area.”

Pine Run will also offer a number of spectator events involving sanctioned professional motorsports racing as well as other events such as snowmobile grass drags and snowcross races.

For day-to-day use, Pine Run will feature club racing where sports car owners can buy an annual membership and then race their car on designated days. It¹s a concept that’s growing rapidly in other parts of the country because owners of high-performance sports cars want a safe facility in which to drive their cars fast.

The proposed track configuration is four tracks in one, with a tri-oval track (three turns and three straightaways) wrapped around two short road courses that can be connected to make one four-mile road course. A road course involves both right and left turns, unlike an oval track that features all left turns.

The vehicle dynamics area will be used for driving instruction, and to test vehicles in varying road conditions. It’s basically a large, open paved area used to train drivers in skid recovery, slalom, evasive and defensive driving, braking, etc.

Pine Run is being developed by Forest Lake-based JD Investments on a 500-acre parcel about 10 miles west of Pine City, Minn., near the town of Henriette. JD Investments is currently working with Pokegama Township and Pine County to acquire approval for the project.

“We’ve very excited to start working with local governments and neighbors to move our project forward,” said Jed Copham, JD Investments CEO. “As a recreation destination, we believe Pine Run will be a fantastic asset for Pine County as it brings business to this area, creates jobs and generates significant taxes for the county.

Those who use Pine Run are expected to come from the Twin Cities, Duluth and central Minnesota, Copham said. But the facility could host drivers and car clubs from throughout the country. And its spectator events could bring competitive and professional racers from around the globe.


Editorial Note: Pine City, Minnesota is located approximately halfway between the Minneapolis/St. Paul area and Duluth, one hour from each, just off Interstate 35.

From a press release issued by the FIM:

Endurance World Championship

2005 Permanent Teams

2, Suzuki Castrol Team, FRA, Suz GSX-R1000, Vincent Philippe, FRA, Matthieu Lagrive, FRA, Keiichi Kitagawa, JPN

3, Yamaha Phase One Endurance, GBR, Yam YZF-R1, Andi Notman, GBR, Damian Cudlin, AUS, Dean Ellison, GBR

4, Benelli X – One, ITA, Ben Tornado TRE 900, Paolo Tessari, ITA, Riccardo Ricci, ITA, tba, tba

5, Bridgestone Bikers Profi Team, GER, Suz GSX-R1000, Tim Roethig, GER, Thomas Cziborra, GER, Stefan Strauch, GER, Ame Tode, GER

6, Shell Endurance Academy, GBR, Yam YZF-R1, Henry Ficher, GBR, Marko Rohtlaan, EST, Alek Buseski, POL

7, Yamaha Austria Racing Team, AUT, Yam YZF-R1, Horst Saiger, AUT, Igor Jerman, SLO, Gwen Giabbani, FRA, Thomas Hinterreiter, AUT

8, Bolliger Team Switzerland, SUI, Kaw ZX-10R, Marcel Kellenberger, SUI, David Morillon, FRA, tba, tba

10, Ducati Spring Team, ITA, Ducati 999, Matteo Colombo, ITA, Lorenzo Mauri, ITA, tba

11, MV Agusta Burger King Lust Racing, GER, MV Agusta F4 1000, Gerd P. Meyer, GER, Stefan Meyer, GER, tba

14, Maco Moto Racing Team, SLK, Yam YZF-R1, Martin Kuzma, SLK, Milos Cihak, CZE, Marek Svoboda, CZE

15, Team Innodrom Racing, GER, Suz GSX-R1000, Niggi Schmassmann, SUI, Lars Albrecht, GER, tba

18, Suzuki Eurosport Benelux, NED, Suz GSX-R1000, tba, tba, tba

21, Kawasaki Endurance Germany, GER, Kaw ZX-10R, Mark Bruning, GER, Thomas Roth, GER, tba

44, No Limits & R.T. Motor Team, ITA, Suz GSX-R1000, Roberto Ruozi, ITA, Moreno Codeluppi, ITA, Andrea Giachino, ITA

51, Suzuki Fabi Corse, ITA, Suz GSX-R1000, Patrizio Fabi, ITA, tba, tba

68, Team Power Bike, FRA, Yam YZF-R1, David Barrot, FRA, Patrick Viera, FRA, tba

76, Suzuki Austria Team 76, AUT, Suz GSX-R1000, Gerhard Klein, AUT, Sandor Bitter, HUN, Marjan Malec, SLO

666, Kawasaki Diablo 666, GBR, James Hutchins, GBR, Kevin Falcke, GBR, Steve Mizera, GER, Mike Edwards, GBR

From a press release issued by Yamaha Racing:

Yamaha riders leave Australia in a positive mood

Yamaha’s officially supported Superbike and Supersport World Championship teams completed their three-day test at the Phillip Island circuit in Australia today, with good weather conditions combining with two days of development work to allow the riders to push their machines to the limit and chase ultimate lap times.

Yamaha Motor Italia’s superbike riders Noriyuki Haga and Andrew Pitt spent the day fine tuning their YZF-R1. Both saw their times drop from the previous two days testing, but more importantly both were able to complete their scheduled programmes of parts evaluation that will be used to build the final specification machines in time for next month’s opening race in Qatar.

Scorching air temperatures of around 30 degrees and a track temperature in excess of 50 caused the tyre technicians some problems during the day, but with the riders dialed into their machines after two previous days’ testing lap times were still able to drop for Haga and Pitt.

Pitt ended the test as the fastest of Yamaha Motor Italia’s superbike riders, setting an ultimate best lap time of 1:33.9. More significantly he was able to lap consistently in the 1:35 bracket despite the extreme weather conditions.

Haga left the test a little slower than his colleague, but had a greater understanding of the YZF-R1 after his first three days on the bike. Haga’s best time of the test, also set today, was a 1:35.0. The Yamaha Motor Italia team is now heading back to Europe with a huge database of information about their new machines. Within the next few days they will decide whether to spend the three weeks leading up to the official pre-season tests in Qatar developing the machines at their Milan headquarters or to carry out further track testing at the Valencia circuit in Spain.

In supersport, Yamaha Motor Germany’s Broc Parkes left Phillip Island feeling confident after three days on his YZF-R6. With the new R6 featuring completely new suspension, that was the area of development that the young Australian and his team concentrated most of their time working on. Parkes’ best time was a 1:37.6, marginally slower than his team-mate Kevin Curtain. Curtain elected to sit out of today’s testing after breaking his collarbone yesterday. His best time from the test was a 1:37.2 on the first day.

Andrew Pitt (Yamaha Motor Italia World Superbike Team YZF-R1) “From the first day to the last we’ve made a lot of progress here at Phillip Island. Based on how well we went in Valencia, I think that we came here believing that we were a little bit further ahead than we actually were, although in the end everything has worked out fine. Sure we can go a little bit faster through improvements to the front end but even in these hot conditions I was able to consistently keep it in the low 35s on a race tyre.”

Noriyuki Haga (Yamaha Motor Italia World Superbike Team YZF-R1) “Again we learned more about the bike today. The 1000cc four-cylinder is very fast of course, but we have also just started working with the bike so there is a lot of learning to do. For sure this is the challenge for us. The bike has a lot of potential but we must still make some small changes to get it just right. We need more testing and development before we are able to win, but I am sure we can do it!”

Massimo Meregalli (Team Coordinator – Yamaha Motor Italia World Superbike Team) “Today was very hot with track temperatures of 50 degrees, which caused us some problems with grip today. Fortunately we do not expect it to be as hot when we return here for the race, or even at the first round in Qatar. We have had no crashes or mechanical failures here and now we know the direction to take with development of the bike, so it has been worthwhile for us to come here.”

Broc Parkes (Yamaha Motor Germany World Supersport Team YZF-R6) “We’ve got the suspension working much better now and we were able to put in a lot of laps today. The lap times haven’t improved much from the first day but the feeling is better and I’m a lot more comfortable on the bike now.”

Terrell Thien (Team Manager Yamaha Motor Germany World Supersport Team) “Other than Kevin’s injury it’s been a worthwhile test. He did consider riding but it is too big a risk and it is better he concentrates on the first race. We’ve been able to get a good understanding of both the bike and Broc. Our main focus has been suspension, as this is all new on the 2005 R6 but we’ve been able to try a lot of other things. We tried a new slipper clutch, which worked perfectly, our engines seem strong and we have found two front tyres which work well with the bike.”

From a press release issued by Gauloises Yamaha:

GAULOISES YAMAHA TEAM TEST
Sepang, Malaysia
Tuesday, January 25, 2005

Ambient temperature: 34 degrees
Track temperature: 52 degrees
Humidity: 30%


YAMAHA MEN COMPLETE SUCCESSFUL SEPANG TEST

The first Gauloises Yamaha Team test of 2005 was rounded off this afternoon with another set of good lap-times from factory team riders Valentino Rossi and Colin Edwards. The two team-mates and their crews were satisfied with the work completed over the three days and will now head home for a short rest before returning to Sepang in just over two weeks to continue the busy winter testing schedule.

World Champion Rossi and Yamaha new-recruit Edwards both completed long runs on their 2005-specification YZR-M1s this afternoon and also spent time testing different tyres for Michelin. Loris Capirossi (Ducati) set the unofficial fastest time for the third consecutive day with a lap of 2:00.54, followed by Honda rider and last year’s championship runner-up Sete Gibernau with a time of 2:01.21. Rossi completed 45 laps and improved from yesterday with the third fastest lap of the day in a time of 2:01.36. He was followed by Honda team-mates Nicky Hayden (2:01.68) and Max Biaggi (2:01.91) with Edwards sixth fastest after 43 laps and a best time of 2:01.93.

Valentino Rossi, (2:01.36, 45 laps)
“I am very happy with this test, especially today. It’s been a very important test with the new bike, and we’ve done some good work. We did quite a few laps together today and the bike felt really good, as did the tyres. We’ve improved from the race last year and from the last test in November, which is encouraging. We still have a lot of things to test with the new bike and a lot of work to do, but we are looking forward to another good test next month.”

Colin Edwards (2:01’93, 43 laps)
“Today was good. I did a long run of laps in the hottest part of the day, and the wind had changed so all the brake markers were different! It took me a couple of laps to readjust and I made a few mistakes, but once I got settled I kept a good pace and it all felt okay. I’m leaving here on a positive note and I’m pleased with what we’ve achieved. I can’t wait to come back and hopefully carry on the good work!”

Jeremy Burgess, Valentino Rossi’s Crew Chief
“The test has been a success and we’re on schedule. The lap times have been better and we’ve improved the new bike; we’re not unhappy in any regard. This is only the first test of the year, but Yamaha has done an excellent job and given us a good bike, so now it’s up to us to get it ready for the start of the season.”

Daniele Romagnoli, Colin Edwards’ Crew Chief
“This has been a positive test all round. We’ve found a good feeling with the bike and the set-up is okay. The bike is turning well and we’ve improved stability over the course of the test. Colin did a long run this afternoon and his pace was fast, better than in the race last year. Of course we need to come back here for the next test and continue with everything we’ve been doing; we need to work on the settings for the chassis and suspension and continue making small improvements, but we’ve got a good base to start from.”

Unofficial Lap Times:

1. Loris Capirossi (Ducati) 2:00.54
2. Sete Gibernau (Honda) 2:01.21
3. VALENTINO ROSSI (YAMAHA) 2:01.36
4. Nicky Hayden (Honda) 2:01.68
5. Max Biaggi (Honda) 2:01.91
6. COLIN EDWARDS (YAMAHA) 2:01.93


More, from a press release issued by Camel Honda:

First test session of 2005 concludes at Sepang

The first test session of the 2005 preseason concluded today for the Camel Honda team riders. There was a slight setback for Alex Barros today, who had run two sets of five laps, the first of which had seen him set an excellent time of 2:01.95 followed by a second quick lap. Whilst he was talking with his Chief Technician Ramon Forcada in the box, Alex got caught by a cold blast of air and his neck stiffened up. Despite an instant massage and painkiller, he was forced to pull out of the test. Troy Bayliss continued to improve after spending the first few laps behind his new team-mate, with whom he has already built up an excellent understanding, and was able to complete his testing programme and leave his difficulties from yesterday behind. Troy’s learning process on the RC211V is well on schedule and the Australian and his crew are all looking forward to the next test in optimistic mood. The next date on the calendar is again at the Malaysian track, with three days planned from 11th to 13th February.

Ramon Forcada – Camel Honda – (Chief Technician Alex Barros)
“Over the first two days we followed the testing programme perfectly but today a completely banal incident has prevented us from finishing it. Here it’s over 30ºC in the shade and when the riders come back they are are hot and sweaty and try to cool down. Alex unzipped his leathers in front of the fan and the cold air stiffened him up. It’s something which will clear up in a few days but it meant that he couldn’t finish the job today: a few other new rear tyres and some more set-up work. Looking at the time Alex did on his second lap today, and that of his team-mate, it’s clear they’re in the right shape to do well. We’ll just have to be patient, we’ve got some top results here and gathered some good information to give to HRC. We’re very satisfied.

Alex Barros – Camel Honda – 2:01.95 (10 laps)
“Today started off really well, I was riding quick straight away but then I got a stiff neck from the air. They gave me a massage but even after the painkillers it was useless. It’s a shame but that’s the way things go. We’ll make up for it at the next test.”.

Santiago Mulero – Camel Honda (Chief Technician Troy Bayliss)
“Today was a completely different story. We analysed all the data we had, came up with a few solutions and they were proved right on the track. Troy feels much more comfortable now and at the next test we’ll be able to take another step forward, because we’ll be able to set it up perfectly for him. We’re happy to have put Troy in the right shape to look forward to the next test with a lot of faith”.

Troy Bayliss – Camel Honda – 2:02.691 (67 laps)
“Today I can finally say that I’m happy, I’ve taken 1.3 seconds off my time from yesterday. Everything went better and we’re back on the right path, so much so that I’ve gone quicker now than in testing and the race here last year. I did two mini simulations of ten laps each at a really good pace. I’m sure that when we return here in a little over two weeks’ time we’ll be able to pick up where we’ve left off. The whole team reacted quickly to a difficult start. This morning I was able to follow Alex for a few laps just to be on the safe side and things got better and better from there. I’m disappointed for him that he had his setback but I’m sure he’ll be better soon.”


More, from a press release issued by Honda Racing Information:

Honda MotoGP teams complete successful three-day Sepang test

The three-day MotoGP test at Sepang, Malaysia ended on a high note for HRC and the Honda RC211V riders. HRC staff engineers achieved all he objectives set for the test asthey prepare to build the 205 versions of he V5 990cc grand prix machine. “The data we have gathered from this test will be used to finalise the2005 specifications of the RC211V.” Said the content HRC Managing Director Satoru Horiike.

The Repsol Honda team spent their day confirming all they had learned from the technical aspect of the test, and competing extensive Michelin tyre testing. Nicky Hayden put in a grueling 99-laps during the day testing a range of new tyres running both short stints and endurance tests.

Hayden’s teammate, Italian Max Biaggi confirmed the variety of engine and chassis improvements HRC have made before concentrating on testing tyres. Biaggi was pleased with the results and is looing forward to returning to Sepang with the 2005 RC211V.

Sete Gibernau (Telefonica MoviStar Honda) finished testing all the new components HRC had brought to Sepang and left for home very satisfied with the test. Teammate Marco Melandri ended the test in buoyant mood. The young Italian tested different geometry on his RCV with both 2004 Michelin tyres and the latest rubber from the French manufacturer. He finished the test happier with his performance at Sepang than ever before.

Camel Honda riders Alex Barros and Troy Bayliss worked in harmony during the morning with Barros sharing his vast experience of the Honda RC211V with his new to Honda teammate Bayliss.

Despite incurring severe neck cramp early in the day Barros was satisfied with his test results. Bayliss ended the session a much happier man than he was on the first two days of the test. The Australian slashed 1.3s off his best time of yesterday and is now looking forward to returning to Sepang for the next HRC test in two weeks time.

Konica Minolta rider Makoto Tamada was the happiest of the RCV riders. The Japanese rider gets more comfortable on the machine fitted with Michelin tyres each time he takes the bike out onto the track.


HONDA TEAM QUOTES:

Satoru Horiike – Managing Director of HRC: “This three-day test has been very worthwhile for us. The two Repsol Honda factory riders and the five riders from the satellite teams have given their best efforts over the three days, we very much appreciate the work the have done. The data we have gathered from this test will be used to finalise the 2005 specifications of the RC211V. I hope the test results will be a step forward for the next test here at Sepang. We wish to thank everyone involved in Honda Racing and our technical partners for their support.”

Makoto Tanaka – HRC Repsol Honda Team Manager: “This is a very important and difficult period for us. We have a new rider, some new mechanics and Erv Kanemoto has joined the team. But we have worked together very well and step by step achieved the objectives we set for this test. This is a very important season for Honda and we will give our best to win back the MotoGP title.”

Max Biaggi, Repsol Honda, 2:01.91 – 83 laps: “The good thing about this test session is that I am here and I am among the fastest riders. Believe me, I was not sure to make it. I started trusting my ankle only after 25/30 laps. On the other hand, I understood that there’s not too much time and there is a lot of job to do. Thanks God, I don’t miss the strength and the will to make it. During all the test days I’ve never left the circuit before 10 p.m. Would you believe me if I tell you that I was the one who closed the track gate? Of course, HRC team led by Erv Kanemoto spent all these evenings with me because we all have a common goal: building The Winning Machine.”

Nicky Hayden, Repsol Honda: 2:01.68 – 99 laps: “The test has been pretty silky smooth really after having been off the bike for a while. Sure, we’ve still got a lot of work to do but it’s great the team is working so well. The mechanics, HRC, the Michelin and the Showa boys; they sure ain’t scared of doing some work which is what we have to do as we know what we’re up against. We put a lot of laps in – probably too many really but we had lots of things to look at – lots of new tyres from Michelin and some real good ones as well. I’d say its been a really valuable start to the year.”

Erv Kanemoto, Repsol Honda Team Technical Director: “Overall a very positive test for the whole team. We came here as really a new team. In a very short time we have found a good working method and there is a good spirit in the team. We have used the three days to look at some of the new parts we have developed for the RCV but more we have used the test to learn about the machine and how the riders can extract the best from it. I think we have made a good base and we can build on this solid platform at the next test.”

Sete Gibernau, Telefonica MoviStar Honda: 2:01.325 – 61 laps: “We have done a good job evaluating the parts HRC brought here for us to test. HRC needed to evaluate the parts before building the 2005 RC211V. I was able to do many laps at 2:02 and a few inside 2:01.this test also helped us understand why we had such a bad race at this track last year.”

Marco Melandri, Telefonica MoviStar Honda: 2:02.1 – 66 laps: “I’m very happy about today because, like everyone else, it was hard work for me in the heat this afternoon. We changed the geometry a little and the bike was better. With the changes to the geometry and the new Michelin tyres everything was much better. Before this test I was a little worried about how I would perform because this track was not great for me in the past. Now I like the track a bit better because in the past the Yamaha used to take me round, now I take the Honda round.”

Alex Barros, Camel Honda: 2:01.90 – 10 laps: “Today began very well I was soon very fast and set a time of 2:01.9 on the second lap. When I went into the pits I took off my leathers but standing near the cold air fan I got cramps in my neck. It’s a shame because the track conditions were very good for my colleagues and they set fast times. We have given HRC a lot of information and this test session has been very good for us.”

Troy Bayliss, Camel Honda: 2:02.69 – 67 laps: “Today was much better and finally I can say I’m happy. I am faster than I was with the Ducati last year, even if I only really got to work. I’m ready for the next test. I did two mini runs of 10 laps with a good rhythm. In the morning I did a few laps with Alex (Barros) to verify a few things and from then on everything went better. I’m sorry had the inconvenience of the cramps but I’m sure he will be better for the next test.”

Makoto Tamada (Konica Minolta Honda): 2:02.8 – 73 laps: “I wanted to make my time attack when the temperature was cooler but I couldn’t even finish my long run because the tyre and rim dislocated. So my best lap time was set on the second lap this morning. Still we gained a lot of precious data from the test. For the coming test, here at Sepang, in February we will have the new RCV so maybe I will have to start all over again. But now I’m really enjoying riding the bike, everything I tested was fruitful.”


More, from a press release issued by Kawasaki Racing Team:

KAWASAKI CONCLUDE SUCCESSFUL FIRST OUTING AT SEPANG

Kawasaki riders, Shinya Nakano and Alex Hofmann, ended the three day test at Sepang with career best performances at the Malaysian track today.

Both Ninja ZX-RR pilots were in great form, despite another day of tropical heat and humidity with track temperatures reaching an exhausting 59 degrees.

Nakano completed 34 laps today with a fastest time of 2:02.7, his best of the Sepang test and 1.5s faster than his previous best in last October’s Malaysian Grand Prix.

With a final day total of 48 laps, Hofmann posted an improved time of 2:03.7, a personal best by 2.9s seconds at the 5.5 km circuit. Unfortunately the test schedule did not allow the 24-year-old German rider an opportunity to do a final run on the best combination of front and rear tyres.

The primary aim of the test was to evaluate prototype versions of the 2005 Ninja ZX-RR and a new generation of Bridgestone tyres, both front and rear.

The new tyre selection included revised constructions, contours and compounds and clearly showed that Kawasaki’s tyre partner have done a lot of development work during the winter off-season.

The chassis and suspension set-up programme for the Sepang test was designed to provide data for the development of the Ninja ZX-RR chassis, which will evolve over the next three months, before being debuted by Nakano and Hofmann in the first race of the 2005 season at Jerez.

Back-to-back runs with the well balanced ’04 ZX-RR were an essential point of comparison, and both Nakano and Hofmann continued that programme today.

This test was the first appearance of the revised chassis and, not surprisingly, it will now undergo further refinement based on the feedback from Sepang.

For the tyre tests Kawasaki and Bridgestone engineers used the known performance base of last year’s ZX-RR on which Nakano scored Kawasaki’s first four-stroke MotoGP podium in the Japanese Grand Prix at Motegi.

Shinya Nakano: #56
“Today was important to provide feedback on the ’05 prototype ZX-RR frame with different stiffness, and it was good to have engineers from both Kawasaki and SRT in the pit box with us to assess the performance of the new chassis. This is our first test with the new machine and, at the moment, we don’t have the same balance as we do with the ’04 bike. But this is to be expected at a first test, and it’s important that we come away from here with a clear direction that will allow us to move forward with the development of the ’05 bike. I did my fastest lap with the best combination of the new Bridgestone front and rear tyres, both of which were very consistent and a clear step forward.”

Alex Hofmann: #66
“The new frame has some positive points, but like all new developments, there are also some areas for improvement, and it was important to learn these things early in the development programme. For me, a big advantage is the packaging and the way I sit on the bike with my 1.8 metre height; I feel much more comfortable and relaxed and part of the machine. I also need less pressure on the handlebars under acceleration. This test showed just how good the ’04 ZX-RR chassis is; I’m still faster on the ’04 bike, but that’s to be expected on the first outing and is sure to change at subsequent tests. As for the latest Bridgestone tyres, I really like the new fronts. They give more grip and confidence on turn-in, as well as better balance as you release the brake. I think any rider using Bridgestone tyres this year will be very happy.”

Naoya Kaneko: Technical Coordinator
“The main chassis work today was to evaluate a variation of the 2005 prototype with a different stiffness option. The total package of the ’05 bike still needs some changes to improve on the very good balance of last year’s Ninja ZX-RR, so this was a valuable opportunity to obtain the required data in back-to-back runs. Both riders are impressed with the new generation Bridgestone tyres, and Shinya found an excellent combination of new contour front and rear tyres for his best lap time. The positive points of the tyres are improved cornering and drive grip. Overall this test has provided the direction we needed for further chassis and tyre development for the coming season.”


More, from a press release issued by Telefonica Movistar Honda:

TEAM TELEFONICA MOVISTAR HONDA COMPLETE THE FIRST TEST SESSION AT SEPANG

The three-day MotoGP test at Sepang, Malaysia ended with good results for the Telefonica MoviStar Honda Team.

Despite the hot temperatures (52 degrees the asphalt temperature), Sete Gibernau completed 57 laps running consistently on a pace of 2:02, he also made some fast laps on 2:01.

Marco Melandri, improved his feeling with the RC211v and lapped consistently improving his lap time.

Juan Martinez, Sete Gibernau’s chief mechanic:
“Today we finished the program scheduled for this first test session, we also tested different chassis. Now we need to analyse all the data gathered here, this analyse is fundamental to start working for the 2005. I’m satisfied of the results we got so far, Sete run faster and more consistent on this track, now we have to verify if the modifications we mage here are good also for the other tracks.”


SETE GIBERNAU – 2:01.2, 57 laps: “We have done a good job evaluating the parts HRC brought here for us to test. HRC needed to evaluate the parts before building the 2005 RC211V. I was able to do many laps at 2:02 and a few inside 2:01. This test also helped us understand why we had such a bad race at this track last year.

One of my aim before coming here was also to work in strong cooperation with Michelin and HRC and I think that we have worked well.”


Fabrizio Cecchini, capotecnico di Marco Melandri:
“We leave Malaysia satisfied and with some good results, Marco has entered the Honda Gresini family after two difficult seasons on MotoGP and I’m happy to say that now he is enjoying riding and he has improved his pace a lot. He had a good rhythm today with used tyres! We didn’t make a long run but we used the same tyres for more than 20 laps and Marco was doing well.”


MARCO MELANDRI – 2:02.19, 66 laps:
“I’m very happy about today because, like everyone else, it was hard work for me in the heat this afternoon. We changed the geometry a little and the bike was better. With the changes to the geometry and the new Michelin tyres everything was much better. Before this test I was a little worried about how I would perform because this track was not great for me in the past.

Today we made many laps with used tyres and I have seen that I’m not too far from the other riders. As for the single lap time, it’s still a little bit early for me to make a very good fast lap because I need to know the bike better. “


LAP TIMES
SETE GIBERNAU 2:01.2
MARCO MELANDRI 2:01.29


More, from a press release issued by Fortuna Yamaha:

FORTUNA YAMAHA CONCLUDE TESTING PROGRAMME IN SATISFACTORY FASHION AT SEPANG

Fortuna Yamaha riders Toni Elías and Rubén Xaus today ended their first session of preseason tests on their new Yamaha YZR-M1 machines. Elias and Xaus continued to run up the laps in tough conditions at Sepang, with circuit temperatures reaching 52ºC. However, the riders stuck to their testing programme and rode throughout the day without making too many changes to the set-up of their YZR M1 machines. Yesterday evening Elías visited the Subang hospital, where doctors diagnosed a fracture to the little finger of his right hand, suffered on Sunday. His team-mate Rubén Xaus ended his first ever test with the M1 in positive mood although he had some problems adjusting to the bike because of his height and he suffered blistering where his body rubbed against the YZR M1. The best time of the day again came from Loris Capirossi (Ducati), who was also testing in Sepang alongside several MotoGP teams. Loris set a best lap of 2:00.54 whilst Elías (Fortuna Yamaha) managed an impressive 2:02.8 after 51 laps with his injured hand. His team-mate Rubén Xaus’ best effort was a 2:04.00 after 52 laps. Toni Elías and Rubén Xaus will both return to Europe tomorrow and continue their physical training programmes ahead of the next set of tests programmed by the Fortuna Yamaha team.

Toni Elías, (2:02.80) 51 laps

“I’m really satisfied because things were tough at the start after my crash on Sunday but in the end we were able to complete the testing programme we had planned. This afternoon I was even able to do my first tyre tests with Michelin. We haven’t made any major changes to the M1 although we have adjusted a few minor technical aspects. It doesn’t feel quite so strange to be riding the M1 anymore although there are a few things that don’t come naturally to me yet. But everything needs time and I’ll adapt eventually to the bike. The tests went much better here than in Valencia, where I rode the M1 for the first time. I have to get used to test sessions as long as this one and hopefully I can keep going like this. I’ve really enjoyed it and I’m leaving here a happy man!”

Rubén Xaus (2:04.00) 52 laps

“Riding a bike which is so different to what I am used to has given me a few physical problems and I’ve suffered a few blisters as a result of the bike rubbing me. Today we concentrated on continuing to get to know the M1 because yesterday we were lapping quickly all day and this is a difficult track. You can see clearly on the telemetry that I’m giving it plenty of gas. The bike is shorter and the weight transfer is very different to the Ducati. With me not being used to the M1, I worked harder than the bike over the first two days! The relationship with the team is good although I still have to get used to the way the Japanese work. Maybe it would have been easier to ride the bike for the first time in Europe, where I’ve got more references. Anyway, we had to do it here and I’m very happy with the way the first test has gone with Yamaha!”

TIMES

1 Loris Capirossi (Ducati) 2:00.54
2 Sete Gibernau (Honda) 2:01.21
3. VALENTINO ROSSI (Yamaha) 2:01.36
4. Nicky Hayden (Honda) 2:01.68
5. Max Biaggi (Honda) 2:01.91
6. COLIN EDWARDS (Yamaha) 2:01.93


More, from a press release issued by Ducati Corse:

DESMOSEDICI GP5 ENDS SEPANG TESTING WITH RECORD TIME

Capirossi sets quickest time during the three-day test (2:00.54), the Italian improving the Malaysian circuit’s official pole record by 1.3 seconds.

Sepang (Malaysia) 25 January 2005 – The Ducati Marlboro Team ended the three-day test session at the Malaysian circuit with smiles all around from the results of the development work on the new Desmosedici GP5. The team leave Sepang with the knowledge that they are heading in the right direction, even though there is still a lot of work to be done in view of the difficult championship that lies ahead. The only regret was the forced absence of Carlos Checa, who had to remain in bed all day with a high temperature and a massive headache.

“These were three positive days, especially because we were able to get down to some real testing” declared Loris Capirossi. “We worked methodically on the suspension settings and tyres and managed to find the right balance. I’m very satisfied with the latest technical innovations: the chassis, the swing-arm and the ECU have all made improvements to the Desmosedici. With Bridgestone tyre development is continuing non-stop and in the next test session at Sepang we will be concentrating on the rear tyre to further improve duration over a race distance, which is already quite good. In any case, irrespective of the times we set, we have to continue along this path without getting all carried away. But I have to admit that it’s great to be competitive!”

“I had intended to get back out on the track again, but my headache was still giving me problems and sadly I had to stay in the hotel”, declared Carlos Checa. “Loris did a great job and I can’t wait to return to Sepang in a couple of weeks to finally get a chance to ride my Ducati.”

“This was a positive test”, declared Livio Suppo, MotoGP project manager. “The GP5 seems to have started off well and the Bridgestone tyres have already proved themselves to be at an excellent level both in race and qualifying set-up. It was a real pleasure to see a smile back on Loris’s face again and watch him ride in the way only he knows how! It was a pity about Carlos, but I am sure that he will be OK for the next tests and will return to Sepang with even more determination. A big thanks to all of our partners, and in particular to Shell Advance, who are allowing us to obtain these results”.

Loris Capirossi 2:00.54

From a press release issued by Gauloises Yamaha:

Sepang, Malaysia
Monday, January 24, 2005
Ambient temperature: 40 degrees
Track temperature: 52 degrees
Humidity: 40%

ROSSI AND EDWARDS PLEASED WITH PROGRESS AT MALAYSIAN TEST

Gauloises Yamaha Team riders Valentino Rossi and Colin Edwards completed a second day of testing in hot and humid Sepang today on their new 2005-specification YZR-M1s, both improving on the times they set yesterday. It was hard work for the entire team, as temperatures reached a maximum of 40 degrees during the day, but both riders finished the day satisfied with the job they had done and now look forward to making more progress during tomorrow’s final day of testing.

Rossi and Edwards continued from where they left off yesterday, once again spending the day refining settings on their M1s and trying to find the best way to develop the new version of the bike, as well as testing a variety of Michelin tyres. According to the unofficial lap times, Ducati rider Loris Capirossi was the fastest man on the track for the second day running, setting a time of 2:01.99, whilst Rossi was second fastest once again, completing 55 laps with a best time of 2:02.16. He was followed by Alex Barros (Honda, 2:02.30), Max Biaggi (Honda, 2:02.35), seemingly well recovered from a broken leg sustained in November, and Kenny Roberts (Suzuki, 2:02.38). Rossi’s Yamaha team-mate Colin Edwards completed 62 laps and was sixth fastest with a time of 2:02.48.

Valentino Rossi, (2:02.16, 55 laps)
“I am quite happy with the work we’ve done today. We worked on suspension and set-up and the bike gave us some good data and a good feeling. Yesterday we went the wrong way with some things but today we’ve made some modifications and we’ve found the right way forward. We’ve worked mainly on making the bike more agile; trying to make it more like the 2004 bike in this area, and we had a really good run of improvements this morning.”

Colin Edwards (2:02.48, 62 laps)
“We sorted out our first-day teething problems and I’m feeling much happier about everything. I’m so tired tonight, but we knew we’d have to work hard! Overnight we had some ideas and they seem to have worked; now it feels like we’re going in the right direction. The most important thing is confidence in the front of the bike and I had more today. Overall now it doesn’t feel so different from the old bike and the whole package is good. Tomorrow we’ll play around some more, probably do a race simulation and hopefully make some more improvements.”

Davide Brivio, Gauloises Yamaha Team Director
“It was a productive day for both riders. We spent a lot of time testing tyres for Michelin and we made a good job of this. Before that we were able to improve the bike settings compared to yesterday, so we are on the way. Tomorrow is the final day so we hope that we can continue this work and finish on a good note.”

Unofficial Lap Times:
1. Loris Capirossi (Ducati) 2:01.99
2. VALENTINO ROSSI (YAMAHA) 2:02.16
3. Alex Barros (Honda) 2:02.30
4. Max Biaggi (Honda) 2:02 35
5. Kenny Roberts (Suzuki) 2:02 38
6. COLIN EDWARDS (YAMAHA) 2:02.48


More, from a press release issued by Camel Honda:

Camel Honda Team continue to work in perfect harmony

The second day of tests in Malaysia saw the whole of the Camel Honda set-up working seamlessly together during the allowed track-time as they put their new riders’ requests into place. Although Troy Bayliss decided to reject the chance to test new tyres so that he could continue his gradual adaptation to the new bike, he bettered his best time from yesterday by nearly a second despite having a set-up he is still dissatisfied with. Alex Barros meanwhile carried out some intense testing on a wide range of tyres provided by Michelin, to improve their performance in extreme weather conditions, such as those found in Malaysia.

Ramon Forcada – Camel Honda – (Alex Barros’s Technical Director)
“Today we carried out a series of very tough tests, because testing front tyres – of which some are made of a new compound – requires the ultimate in focus. I think that we’ve done a good job alongside the Michelin technicians today, which will be very useful when we get back here within less than three weeks. Alex also was quick throughout the day, and always amongst the fastest out on track; once again his fastest lap came on race tyres, and he went back underneath the track record. Unless we get any more test requests from the French technicians, we won’t use the softer tyres at all tomorrow, because a one-off fast lap with qualifying tyres is not our aim at this moment in time.”

Alex Barros – Camel Honda – 2:02.307 (77 laps)
“Today was another great day of work, very productive and very intense. I tested something like 12 new front tyres! The objective was to give some feedback to all of Michelin so they can prepare a new series of front tyres for the test back here in Sepang in a couple of weeks. Tomorrow perhaps we will work on some rear rubbers. Only towards the end of the day did I make some little refinements to the set-up of the forks, but it wasn’t much really. “

Santiago Mulero – Camel Honda (Troy Bayliss’s Technical Director)
“The modifications we tested today, which aimed to improve traction and the behaviour of Troy’s bike on the brakes didn’t give us the results we wanted, but we have already decided down which route we will go tomorrow. Using the data we collected today from both riders we will try to make Troy’s adaptation to the RC211V a little easier, and will try to make the settings more suitable to his style of riding.”

Troy Bayliss – Camel Honda – 2:03.918 (52 laps)
“It was quite a tough day today, because although I lowered my best time, I didn’t feel completely at ease in the saddle. I’ve gone a bit off course at the moment, but seeing as that at Jerez the bike went really well and also the other Hondas are already pretty well set up here, there’s no real reason why we shouldn’t be able to get back on track.”


More, from a press release issued by Honda Racing Information:

MotoGP winter test Sepang, Malaysia. Day two of three-day test, January 24,
2005.

Honda riders up the work rate on day two of Sepang MotoGP test.

The Honda teams and riders worked hard on the second day of the MotoGP winter test at Sepang, Malaysia, gathering valuable technical information on chassis and suspension settings on their Honda RC211V five-cylinder 990cc machines in combination with various Michelin tyres.

Repsol Honda factory team riders Max Biaggi and Nicky Hayden worked on every aspect of chassis performance. Italian Biaggi running through
everything on the HRC test schedule for the day suspension changes and machine balance chief among them, and all on 2004 season race tyres.
Teammate Hayden concentrating of the front suspension in the morning before moving on suspension and tyre combinations.

The Telefonica MoviStar Honda team riders worked on different aspects of RCV performance. Spaniard Sete Gibernau working on chassis settings and suspension-tyre combinations while teammate Marco Melandri continued his
acclimatisation with the V5 Honda tying various new 2005 engine parts and settings. The young Italian is trying to get as many laps under his belt as possible in his step by step approach to mastering his new mount.

Alex Barros (Camel Honda) spent the entire day testing front tyres. The Brazilian tried no less than 10 front covers during the day. Barros’
teammate, Troy Bayliss has yet to find a base setting he is comfortable with. Try as he might the Australian ended the day frustrated with his lack of progress.

In contrast Makoto Tamada enjoyed his day testing Michelin tyres. Tamada’s previous grand prix experience has been with Bridgestone equipped RC211V machines. The Japanese star has gained great confidence from the Michelin
technology and is looking forward to the new season.


HONDA TEAM QUOTES:

Max Biaggi – Repsol Honda: 2:02.35 – 43 laps. “There must be a mistake. I was not expecting to ride this fast right after the injury and more on the last year’s bike. We scored excellent laps even if we were not working for it. I really like the team spirit. HRC people are very motivated to do good. Erv Kanemoto and my crew chief Hideki Iwano are collecting precious information for the new bike and I’m so happy to have two perfectionists like them on my side. Furthermore, Repsol orange really makes me want to ride.”

Nicky Hayden – Repsol Honda: 2:02.49 – 81 laps: “Not a bad day. We spent a lot of time testing a bunch of new Michelins and found some stuff we really liked. Both fronts and a few rears that really seemed to give some pretty good grip levels. We looked at testing several different suspension settings with the Showa guys and basically it all went pretty well. It was nice to see some lower laps times today; not yet where I want but definitely a step in the right direction.”

Erv Kanemoto, Repsol Honda Team Technical Director: “Personally I need to get up to speed fast with the RC211V. I need to completely understand the machine and the minute effects that the changes we make to it have on the package. I am looking and learning at the moment – there is really no point my making any major changes until I have gathered much more data but I am encouraged by what we have achieved in a short time. I am under no
illusions – we have a lot of work to do but we have a very strong spirit in the team and we have a big goal.”

Sete Gibernau, Telefonica MoviStar Honda: 2:02.2 – 60 laps: “That was a much better day than yesterday. We have worked very hard myself the team and HRC, we have to gather as much information as possible. We have been mainly working on the chassis cornering, stability and suspension while using many types of tyres. We are satisfied, it was a difficult days work and I hope all the work pays off in the future.”

Marco Melandri ,Telefonica MoviStar Honda: 2:02.70 – 69 laps: “I’m quite happy now. After lunchtime I lost a little feeling from he front end and I didn’t understand why, so I went into the pit. After about 45 minutes I went out again with pretty much the same set up and the good feeling I had with the bike in the morning was coming back. I have been testing some 2005 engine parts ready for the new bike, just for familiarisation. These winter tests are very important for me. I have to get used to the power delivery of the bike so I’m taking things step by step. Many riders go fast in winter testing but you can’t win a world title for winter testing.”

Alex Barros, Camel Honda: 2:02.30: “Today was another great day of work, very productive and very intense. I tested something like 12 new front tyres! The objective was to give some feedback to all of Michelin so they can prepare a new series of front tyres for the test back here in Sepang in a couple of weeks. Tomorrow perhaps we will work on some rear rubbers. Only
towards the end of the day did I make some little refinements to the set-up of the forks, but it wasn’t much really.”

Ramon Forcada , Camel Honda , (Alex Barros’s Technical Director) : “Today we carried out a series of very tough tests, because testing front tyres – of which some are made of a new compound – requires the ultimate in focus. I think that we’ve done a good job alongside the Michelin technicians today, which will be very useful when we get back here within less than
three weeks. Alex also was quick throughout the day, and always amongst the fastest out on track; once again his fastest lap came on race tyres, and he went back underneath the track record. Unless we get any more test requests
from the French technicians, we won’t use the softer tyres at all tomorrow, because a one-off fast lap with qualifying tyres is not our aim at this moment in time.”

Troy Bayliss – Camel Honda: 2:03.91: “It was quite a tough day today, because although I lowered my best time, I didn’t feel completely at ease in the saddle. I’ve gone a bit off course at the moment, but seeing as that at Jerez the bike went really well and also the other Hondas are already pretty well set up here, there’s no real reason why we shouldn’t be able to get back on track.”

Santiago Mulero, Camel Honda (Troy Bayliss’s Technical Director): “The modifications we tested today, which aimed to improve traction and the behaviour of Troy’s bike on the brakes didn’t give us the results we wanted, but we have already decided down which route we will go tomorrow. Using the data we collected today from both riders we will try to make Troy’s adaptation to the RC211V a little easier, and will try to make the settings more suitable to his style of riding.”

Makoto Tamada – Konica Minolta Honda: 2:02.69: “Again I found the Bridgestone and Michelin tyres to be so different. Once I realised that the Michelin’s are sliding at the high speed at high-speed corners I really like the way they slide. I set a time of 2:02.70 but the tyre didn’t last too long. I can see I must work hard riding on worn out tyres because at
the end of the race this will be very important. Today I tried many, many tyres but didn’t do too many laps on any of them. If I find a good set of
tyres tomorrow I will run an endurance test. Out on the track I didn’t meet too many other riders. One time I was behind Valentino but he soon went into the pit. I was sad because I wanted to follow him for comparison.”


More, from a press release issued by Kawasaki Racing Team:

HEAT WAVE LEADS TO HOT LAPS FOR KAWASAKI IN SEPANG

With heat wave on-track temperatures soaring to 58 degrees, Kawasaki factory riders Shinya Nakano and Alex Hofmann completed a day of gruelling, but productive, testing at Sepang today.

This was day two of the opening pre-season test in advance of the 2005 MotoGP season.

Tyre testing for Kawasaki’s technical partner Bridgestone was the focus of today’s workout and the brutal track conditions proved ideal for that programme.

A range of new construction, shapes and compounds are being evaluated by Bridgestone and Kawasaki engineers, to obtain data that will be the basis of the 2005 race tyre options.

Both Nakano and Hofmann rode a base set-up on 2004 model 990cc, Ninja ZX-RR machines, to provide a constant point of comparison on various tyre specifications.

In the morning session Hofmann also continued with set-up work on the new 2005 chassis, which is in the early stages of evaluation. With another five test sessions scheduled before the first race of the season, Kawasaki’s Technical Coordinator, Naoya Kaneko, is confident that the latest evolution of the Ninja ZX-RR will deliver increased performance in race conditions.

Today Nakano ran a total of 61 laps with a best time of 2:03.4, while Hofmann completed 58 laps of the 5.5km Sepang circuit. Both riders were impressed by the performance and development direction of the new Bridgestone tyres.

Hofmann’s time was 2.7s faster than his best race lap in last October’s Malaysian GP at this track, while Nakano was 0.8s quicker than his previous best race lap at Sepang.

Tomorrow’s third and final day of the Sepang test will see further evaluation of Bridgestone tyres and continued set-up work on the 2005 chassis.

Shinya Nakano: #56
“I’m very happy with today’s tyre test because, obviously, Bridgestone have done a lot of work over the winter. I concentrated on rear tyres using a base set-up with the ’04 Ninja ZX-RR chassis and motor, and found improved forward drive and endurance levels with some of the new construction tyres. The conditions were hot, but it was perfect for tyre testing and I felt much better on the bike today; I found the first day of testing a little difficult. Now I’m looking forward to trying the new front Bridgestone tyres tomorrow and doing more work with the 2005 prototype chassis.”

Alex Hofmann: #66
“That was hot work today. It is a big change in climate coming from winter in Switzerland to this test, but I’m enjoying being back on the bike. The 2004 chassis was our strength last year, so that gave me a good base to work from in evaluating the new Bridgestone tyres. The rears show improved traction and durability, and I like the feel of new front rubber. I think we can be very positive about our tyre potential this season. I did some laps on the ’05 bike in the morning but we need more time to maximise the set-up; at the moment I don’t feel a big difference from the ’04 chassis.”

Naoya Kaneko: Technical Coordinator
“Our plan for today was to do a lot of work with Bridgestone, to provide data and information for race tyre development in advance of the first race. For this reason both Shinya and Alex used the 2004 model ZX-RR chassis, because we understand this bike and set-up for Sepang. The new 2005 frame has great potential, but we still have a lot of work to do over the next three months. Alex tried the new bike in the morning session, but stopped early with a small motor problem. In the afternoon both riders completed a very positive tyre test, especially in terms of endurance with the new specification rear tyres.”


More, from a press release issued by Telefonica Movistar Honda:

GOOD START FOR TEAM TELEFONICA MOVISTAR HONDA

Sete Gibernau and Marco Melandri carry on the pre-season test in preparation of the 2005 championship

MotoGP test Sepang, Malaysia. Day two, January 24, 2005.

Despite the hot conditions (over 35 degree the air temperature and 56°C the maximum temperature of the asphat) the Telefonica MoviStar Honda Team carried on a hard job testing until 06.00 p.m. Sete Gibernau, together with his team, focused on gathering valuable technical information, testing many different stuff in order to create a basis of work for the new season while team mate Marco Melandri continued his acclimatisation with the V5 Honda tying various settings. The young Italian is trying to get as many laps as possible in his step by step approach to the RC211V.

Sete Gibernau – 2:02.1, 62 laps:
“Today we decided to stop working with the transponders in order to carry on the program scheduled for today with less interruptions. Today we tested a lot of material, it is all 2004 stuff that we are testing in order to understand what helps us, this is an essential job to create the standard bike on which we can work for the 2005.

I’m happy of my lap time, a rider always looks for a fast time but at the moment I’m focused on another kind of job that doesn’t allow me to take the right rhythm for a fast time: every time I go on track with some new material and 4 laps in a row are not enough to take the pace and make a fast lap. But I’m working in preparation of the whole season, I’m satisfied with my way of working, it worked well for me in the past two seasons.”


Marco Melandri – 2:02.79, 63 laps:
“I’m satisfied with the work done today, my feeling with the bike is improving lap by lap. This morning I had a good feeling with the bike and I lapped with a good pace. This afternoon we made some modifications to the bike that ended up for making us loosing the direction so in the end of the day we put the morning setting and my feeling improved immediately. I’m happy with my lap time, I think I have quite a good rhythm and in this moment I prefer to work in race condition, with full tank so that I can better understand the bike and its reactions.”


More, from a press release issued by Team Suzuki:

Superb first test for Team Suzuki MotoGP

TEAM SUZUKI MOTOGP has completed its first test of the year at Sepang in Malaysia, with both racers Kenny Roberts Jr and John Hopkins showing plenty of pre-season promise.

The four day test held at the hot and humid Malaysian circuit, where track temperatures rose to over 60 degrees Celsius, gave technicians and riders plenty of time to experiment with the changes made to the GSV-R’s engine and chassis in the closed season. The changes have seen a marked increase in both power and handling capabilities which were evident on the fast and demanding Sepang track.

Roberts Jr and Hopper were both on the pace and happy with the progress made by the Suzuki engineers on the GSV-R, code named XRE2.3.

Technical partners Bridgestone and Motul were present throughout the test days providing new rubber compounds and oil for the team to evaluate.

This was the first time the team had assembled under new manager Paul Denning who is still fresh from his success in the British Superbike Championship with Rizla Suzuki. A strong bond is already forming between existing and new crew members.

Team Suzuki MotoGP returns to Sepang for a further test on February 9th, the second in its gruelling pre-season schedule before the MotoGP World Championship begins at Jerez in Spain on April 10th.

Kenny Roberts Jr

“It was great to be back out on my GSV-R again, but to be honest this one has a completely different performance potential. The guys have certainly made some changes and I believe we are on the way to being a force to be reckoned with this season. Sure there is still a lot to do-and everyone knows it-but for me this is the best start to a season for several years.”

John Hopkins

“This was a good work-out for the team and me, it was nice to start working with all the guys again. I’m really excited about all the GSV-R’s changes, the jump in performance since the end of last season is the biggest I’ve experienced while riding for Suzuki and I’m certainly looking forward to the next test.

“My body is less than perfect right now and the GSV-R needs to improve further, but I really think we can be part of the fast gang in 2005.”

Paul Denning

“After all the waiting it is very encouraging to have got the first test completed. Suzuki has done a great job with the engine performance over the winter and the assistance this weekend from Bridgestone, Motul and all other technical partners has been fantastic. The signs are there that we are on the right route and we are working hard to make the GSV-R the best it can possibly be.

“I’d like to thank the Factory engineers, all four riders, including Nobu and Akiyoshi-San and all the crew for their hard work and great attitude during this crucial first test.”


More, from a press release issued by Ducati Corse:

DESMOSEDICI GP5 MAKES FURTHER PROGRESS

Ducati Marlboro Team hard at work on second day of testing at Sepang. Capirossi, the only rider of the team on track, again sets quickest time
in 2:01.98.

Sepang (Malaysia), 24 January 2005 – Today was another positive day of non-stop testing for Loris Capirossi, while Carlos Checa was unable to
test the Desmosedici GP5 due to the condition of his injured hand. The Italian rider, who continued the development work on the new bike,
completed 60 laps of the Sepang circuit in sweltering conditions (track temperature 56°).

“Today was another excellent day for Loris, confirming that the GP5 has already reached a good level, and so is Loris’s confidence with the new Bridgestone tyres”, declared Livio Suppo, Ducati MotoGP project manager.
“Unfortunately Carlos wasn’t feeling well this morning, he had a big headache and we preferred to let him rest for the whole day. It’s nothing serious, just a severe bout of flu, probably due to his overall condition following his hand injury, which however is improving, and tomorrow we hope he will join Loris on the track”.

“It’s a real pleasure to be able to work in this way, a great satisfaction and an important boost”, declared Loris Capirossi. “We got though a lot of work and tested several different set-ups, and were able to confirm that the chassis is performing well. We also made another step forward with the Bridgestone tyres, in particular with the front which is perfect. Now we have to concentrate on the rear tyre, in order
to be competitive over race distance. Tomorrow will be another day of hard work but for the moment I’m really satisfied with everything: A big thanks to everyone in Ducati Corse, they’ve done an excellent job.”

“I was a bit disappointed to see everyone else out on the track but today I was unable to test because I had a massive headache”, declared
Carlos Checa. “Hopefully tomorrow I’ll be better and I can go out again. In any case, seeing Loris’s superb performance makes me feel a lot
better and it confirms that we are going to go a long way with the new GP5 project.”

Loris Capirossi 2:01.98


More, from a press release issued by Fortuna Yamaha:

FORTUNA YAMAHA CONTINUE THEIR TEST PROGRAMME AT SEPANG

Fortuna Yamaha riders Toni Elías and Rubén Xaus continued their testing programme at the Sepang circuit in Malaysia today as planned. Weather conditions were again on the side of the Spanish pair, who were able to spend the majority of the day racking up the kilometres and learning more about their Yamaha YZR-M1 machines.

The best time of the day was again set by Loris Capirossi (Ducati), who is also testing alongside several other MotoGP teams in Sepang. Loris set a quickest lap of 2:01.9, whilst Toni Elías (Fortuna Yamaha) clocked 2:03.2 after 51 laps despite the injury to his right hand, suffered yesterday. His team-mate Rubén Xaus set a best time of 2:03.4 after 62 laps, having crashed early in the session without injury.

Toni Elías and Rubén Xaus will complete their third and final day of tests tomorrow before returning to Europe.

Toni Elías, (2:03.20) 51 laps

“Much better! Yesterday we were basically riding to get used to the M1 and solve a few aspects related to the bike and my physical condition. Today we were able to adjust the engine braking a little more and the suspension, which helped me to feel much more comfortable on the M1. All that with my injured little finger! It hurts a lot and to be honest this morning I thought I would only be able to manage a couple of laps. The company that makes my gloves came up with something that allowed me to go out and ride and my right glove is actually two sizes bigger than my left! In general I feel really at home with the team. Nobody is putting pressure on me and bit by bit we’re getting better – tomorrow hopefully more so!”

Rubén Xaus (2:03.40) 62 laps

“In the afternoon everything went much better. With not knowing the M1 and everybody wanting to try different things – especially me – we got a bit lost. After the crash the Yamaha engineers came to the box and told us to start from scratch again. It was the right decision because in the afternoon I felt much more comfortable and the M1 ran much better, allowing me to set the lap of 2:03.4. I carried on riding without really testing anything because the most important thing right now is to adapt and get to know the YZR M1”.

From a press release:

California Superbike School’s Global Expansion Moves Forward

California Superbike School and Phillip Island have inked a five year deal that will see Keith Code’s Cornering schools form the backbone of rider training at this legendary circuit. The exclusive motorcycle training and track day agreement between the Island’s new owners, Linfox Property Management Group and Superbike School will open up complete packages of up to seven days of Phillip Island motorcycle riding experience as well as corporate packages for major events such as World Superbike and MotoGP.

Code said, “Phillip Island is truly a magical place, it even comes across that way on TV. I guarantee you’ll never forget your first trip down the front straight. It’s hard to decide if the phenomenal vista of ocean and island is more interesting than turn one which is coming at you about 160 mph,” Code continues, “Actually we have the semi exclusive at Eastern Creek near Sydney Australia as well. This is a great way to kick off our 25th anniversary coming up in 2005.”

The California Superbike School is expanding around the globe. October was the school’s first date in Dubai at the new Qatar GP circuit and will return in January adding that country to its portfolio. England, Ireland, Greece, Norway, Sweden, Spain, Dubai, Australia, Malaysia, The Phillippines, America and Brazil schools are running currently and talks are now underway with Italy as well. The tiny country of Estonia is also in their sights. The school provides their world famous training curriculum for riders hungry to learn the skills and discover the art of cornering motorcycles.

Info at: www.superbikeschool.com